Project Lead

Opening for Project Lead is on a term-limited employment basis. Defined employment term: July 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026

The Project Lead (PL) will be primarily responsible for implementing and administering CRDF Global exchange programs. Using project management best practices, the PL develops and manages the technical, financial, and administrative aspects of professional exchange programs to ensure they are administered and implemented in a manner consistent with CRDF Global and funder objectives. The PL will also develop and manage additional division projects as necessary.  

This position is based in CRDF Global’s Arlington, VA office on a hybrid basis, with an in-office expectation of 3 days per week. 

Major Responsibilities:  

• Designs and implements project plans using best practices for project management including work breakdown structures (WBS), statements of work, schedules, deliverables, monitoring and evaluation plans. 

• Manages multiple projects simultaneously for the International Visitors Leadership Program and other exchange programs as required. 

• Designs and develops project proposals and itineraries that meet the stated project objectives, with appropriate adherence to guidelines around content and geographic balance programming priorities. 

• Works with internal and external colleagues, stakeholders, and customers to design, develop, and implement in-person and virtual program activities.  

• Arrange professional meetings in the Washington, D.C. area and provide project itinerary guidance to community partners for each exchange program. 

• Manages project budgets, payments, and contributes to organizational financial monitoring responsibilities including project spend forecasting, credit card reconciliation, etc. 

• Assist team with ongoing projects related to monitoring & evaluation and social media management (in coordination with the Marketing and Communications Team), among other areas. 

• Supports CRDF Global related growth efforts, including managing stakeholder relations and networking with funders, developing concepts and new project ideas, serving on growth capture teams, and representing program or projects at external events. 

• Supports other programs and staff, as required. 

• Travels within the U.S. and internationally as appropriate. 

• Other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS: 

Required:  

• 2 years of progressively responsible work experience in managing donor-funded programming  

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field 

• Demonstrated project management skills 

• Excellent and effective written and oral communication skills, including the ability to interact with a wide range of individuals from varied backgrounds at all levels within their organizations 

• Sound problem solving skills and ability to work collaboratively towards effective solutions during time-sensitive concerns and emergencies. 

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and use of databases 

• Ability to manage competing priorities and multiple projects at various stages of completion 

• Exceptional organizational skills/attention to detail; ability to meet deadlines 

• U.S. work authorization 

Preferred:  

• Experience working in donor-funded projects, especially for the U.S. government or multilateral institutions. 

• Experience implementing professional or academic exchange programs funded by the U.S. Department of State 

• Background, knowledge or familiarity with public diplomacy programs 

The base pay range for this position is $60,000 to $72,000 The determination of salaries in this job classification depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, relevant candidate experience, job-related knowledge, qualifications and skills. In addition, we have a comprehensive benefits package and paid time off.

CRDF Global is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). CRDF Global provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran, or disabled status.